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Shogi Etiquette│What to keep in mind when playing and what spectators should keep in mind when watching a game

In addition to the rules of the game, there are other rules of etiquette for playing Shogi that both players need to follow in order to play comfortably. In recent years, it has become easy to play Shogi online, and some people may not have many opportunities to meet their opponents face to face. However, if you are interested in participating in Shogi tournaments or social events, we recommend that you learn Shogi etiquette as well.

Shogi can only be played with a partner. To ensure a smooth game and friendly competition, it is important to learn the basic manners of Shogi. In this article, we will explain the manners you should know while playing or watching a game of Shogi.

Etiquette During a Shogi Game

When playing shogi, it’s not enough to simply learn the rules of the game, such as how the pieces move; you must also master the etiquette to be observed during a game. First, I’ll explain the basic etiquette that is highly valued in traditional Japanese shogi.

Do not call "Wait"

In official shogi matches and tournaments, it is prohibited to use the “motta” rule. “Motta” refers to lifting a piece from a square after making a move and then moving it to a different square. Once you lift your finger from the piece, the move is considered complete, and moving the piece afterward is a breach of etiquette.Be careful, as doing this in official matches or tournaments may be considered an illegal move and result in a forfeit loss. However, in some cases, such as during personal practice or instructional games (where a professional player provides guidance through a game), “motta” may be permitted as an exception.

Place the pieces so that they fit neatly into the squares on the board.

When placing shogi pieces, be mindful to position them neatly within the squares on the board and take care not to place them carelessly. If it’s unclear exactly which square a piece is on, it will make it difficult for your opponent to make their next move.Place the pieces carefully in the center of each square. To achieve this, it’s ideal to repeatedly practice the basics of handling and placing the pieces—such as how to hold and position them—especially when you’re just starting out, so that you can make elegant moves.

Do not hide your pieces; place them where they are clearly visible.

If you capture an opponent’s piece during a game, place it so that your captured pieces are clearly visible. Arrange them neatly on the piece tray with their faces up.Avoid placing them face down or stacking them on top of each other. If you cannot see each other’s captured pieces, it becomes difficult to accurately assess the position. Arranging the pieces neatly can also help you organize your thoughts during the game. If, for any reason, your opponent’s captured pieces are difficult to see, it is perfectly fine to ask them to rearrange them.

Etiquette Toward Your Opponent

In traditional Japanese shogi, it is considered important to behave with courtesy toward your opponent during a game. Therefore, when beginners play shogi with someone, it is essential that they first learn how to show proper courtesy to their opponent. Here, we will introduce the etiquette for interacting with your opponent.

Be mindful of the distinction between those in higher and lower positions

A distinctive feature of shogi matches is that players are classified as “higher-ranked” or “lower-ranked” based on their skill level (i.e., how strong they are at shogi). There are differences between higher-ranked and lower-ranked players in terms of their roles during the game, where they sit, and the pieces they use. The higher-ranked player sits in the seat of honor and is responsible for setting up the pieces and cleaning up after the game.Additionally, the “Ōshō” piece is used by the higher-ranked player, while the “Tamayō” piece is used by the lower-ranked player. Furthermore, it is considered proper etiquette for the higher-ranked player to perform the “furi-koma” (tossing the pieces) to determine who will play first and who will play second.

Generally, the player’s rank is determined by factors such as the difference in dan or kyu ranks, age, and titles held. However, in amateur tournaments where the players’ skill levels are unknown, it is not uncommon for the higher- and lower-ranked players to be determined by mutual agreement.

To say hello

A shogi game simply cannot take place without an opponent. Therefore, during a game, you should respect your opponent and make a point of exchanging pleasantries and speaking politely from the beginning to the end of the game.The basic greetings are “Please take care of me” before the game and “Thank you very much” after the game. Also, if you need to leave your seat during the game—for example, to use the restroom—it is considered good etiquette to say a quick word to your opponent before stepping away. Be mindful of communication that helps the game proceed comfortably and smoothly.

Make it clear when you're conceding

"Conceding" means voluntarily acknowledging and declaring defeat. As soon as it becomes clear that you have lost, clearly convey your intention to concede by saying "I’ve lost" or "I give up." Even if you feel frustrated about losing the game, it is considered proper etiquette in shogi to gracefully admit defeat.Similarly, when the winning player accepts the opponent’s concession, it is considered poor etiquette to openly express joy in front of the opponent. Remember to show consideration for the losing player and express your gratitude for the game by saying, “Thank you very much.” Ideally, both players should be able to end the game on a positive note.

Hold a post-game debriefing

A post-game review is a discussion between opponents about the good and bad moves made during the game. In shogi, it is considered good etiquette to hold a post-game review after the match, so be sure to actively engage in this exchange.In such cases, it is customary for the losing player to initiate the post-game discussion. One of the benefits of a post-game discussion is that by teaching each other and considering the best moves together, you can deepen your understanding of shogi. It also provides hints for improvement and helps you enhance your playing skill, so make the most of these opportunities for post-game discussions, especially when you’re feeling frustrated after a loss.

Etiquette for Watching Shogi Games

In shogi, watching others play is one of the great pleasures of the game. However, third parties present at a serious match must observe proper etiquette while watching. Finally, I will explain the etiquette you should keep in mind when watching a shogi match as a third party.

Do not speak to players during a game.

During a shogi game, it is considered bad manners for a third party to speak to the players. Since advice from third parties is also prohibited during the game, please make an effort to watch quietly without speaking.As mentioned earlier, in shogi, a “post-game discussion” is held after the game ends, during which the players review each other’s moves. During this discussion, you may ask the players about moves made during the game, but generally, the conversation between the players takes priority. Please assess the atmosphere of the situation before asking any questions.

Don't disturb the game

Third parties watching a shogi game must avoid any words or actions that might disrupt the players’ concentration or distract them. Please be careful not to do anything that could interfere with the game. For example, it is considered good etiquette to watch the game quietly and calmly, avoiding eating or drinking near the players and refraining from private conversations among spectators.Also, please be mindful of your behavior while watching, as actions such as leaning in too closely to look at the shogi board may be considered inappropriate.

Let’s follow the rules of shogi to ensure a pleasant game!

So far, we’ve introduced the etiquette you should keep in mind while playing or watching a game of shogi. In the traditional Japanese game of shogi, there are various rules of etiquette designed to ensure that players can enjoy a pleasant match. Failure to follow these rules may disrupt the flow of the game or cause your opponent discomfort.Once you’ve learned the rules of shogi, be sure to strictly follow the etiquette during games so that everyone can enjoy playing.